2016 NFL Draft: Exclusive Q&A With Sleeper DT Justin Zimmer

Finding late-round gems is always an important part of building an NFL roster. When it comes to the 2016 NFL draft, Division II defensive tackle Justin Zimmer is a prospect who teams need to get to know.

A 4.85 40-yard dash, 32-inch vertical leap, 7.01 second three cone drill and an incredible 44 bench press reps at 6’2″, 302 pounds at the University of Michigan Pro Day put defensive tackle Justin Zimmer squarely on my radar. Those are incredible numbers that suggest raw power and athleticism in Zimmer’s game.

Obviously, athletic numbers do not mean anything if you cannot perform on the football field, but after watching as much tape on Zimmer as I could find, I am officially sold. This guy can play and has tremendous upside at the next level.

Hailing from a little-known Division II college in Michigan (Ferris State), Zimmer shined on the field. His ability to get consistent pressure on the quarterback and make plays in the backfield against the run was incredibly impressive. However, as with all small-school prospects, there are concerns how Zimmer’s game will translate to the NFL level.

Those concerns are certainly fair, but Zimmer has the raw skill-set to make a successful transition. For a player who could easily go undrafted, there is little risk involved for NFL teams here. Taking a shot on Zimmer late in the draft would be a wise move for any NFL team. Zimmer has legitimate upside as an interior pass rusher. Which team couldn’t use another guy who can rush the passer?

So we could get a better idea of him as a player and person, I reached out to Justin for a quick interview. He was gracious enough to accept.

Schmelzer: What is your biggest strength as a player?

Zimmer: Athleticism from the defensive tackle position and my combination of speed and strength after moving inside from defensive end last year.

DS: What part of your game do you have to improve the most for success at the next level?

JZ: Technique is something that I am always working on. I stress “no wasted motions”.

DS: You seemed to play primarily in a four-man front in college, and I see your skills best translating to a three-technique defensive tackle at the next level. Do you think you can play in a three-man front in the NFL?

JZ: I agree that three-technique is my best fit, but I can play a variety of positions. They say that I do not have the length to play 3-4 defensive end, but I think I could find a role as a nose guard.

DS: Is there a current NFL player who you would compare your game to?

JZ: I try to stay away from the comparisons, but I have been spending a lot of time watching Aaron Donald, Gerald McCoy and Ndamukong Suh on film.

DS: What is one phrase you would use to describe your game?

JZ: High Motor.

DS: Your bench press numbers are incredibly impressive and immediately stand out. Were the 44 reps at the UM Pro Day your best number?

JZ: About a month and half before the Pro Day, I did 47 bench press reps. That is the most I have ever done.

DS: Is there a Ferris State player or Division II prospect who you played against who we should be watching?

JZ: Our (Ferris State) quarterback Jason Vander Laan. He has won the D2 Heisman (Harlon Hill Trophy) the past two seasons. He is a big and powerful player who is working out at both quarterback and tight end.

DS: Do you expect to be drafted? If so, what round?

JZ: I honestly have no idea. If I had to choose, yes or no, I would say that I will get drafted in the seventh round.

More nfl spin zone: 2016 NFL Draft: Dream Selection for All 32 NFL Teams

Based on his numbers and play on the field, Zimmer has a real opportunity to make an impact at the next level. A true 2016 NFL Draft sleeper, Zimmer needs to be on our radar.

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